Nurseries are facing increased scrutiny following complaints from parents about being billed for supposedly “free hours” of childcare.
The Government has broadened the eligibility for children to receive up to 30 hours of complimentary childcare per week. However, parents have voiced concerns over being required to make additional payments for services like meals, snacks, nappies, and optional activities despite the hours being labeled as free.
Providers are permitted to charge for extra services, but these fees should not be compulsory or a prerequisite for accessing funded childcare slots. Authorities have the power to take action against childcare facilities found to be violating these regulations.
A report from The Sun indicates that the Government is planning to announce further measures next week to address charging practices in the childcare sector. Although guidelines were recently updated to prohibit non-refundable deposits or registration fees, complaints persist about undisclosed charges.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized the importance of ensuring families are not burdened with unexpected expenses and expressed gratitude for the efforts of most nurseries and childminders. However, she condemned instances of hidden charges, limited hours, and excessive deposits that hinder parents from accessing the promised benefits.
Since September 2025, families with children aged nine months to four years have been able to access 30 hours of free childcare per week. Eligibility for free childcare is contingent on parents meeting certain income criteria, with the Department for Education estimating potential savings of up to £7,500 annually per child for working parents.
